How to Recreate Mod Outfits With Vintage Clothing
The Mod movement came and shook British culture in the 1960s, but it wasn’t just a fashion trend—it was a statement of individuality and style. Sharp tailoring, bold patterns, and clean silhouettes lay at the heart of the look and turned it into a cornerstone of fashion. If you value sophistication and a touch of rebellion in your wardrobe, Mod is for you.
The good news is that incorporating this timeless style into your look and recreating authentic Mod outfits is more accessible than ever, thanks to the availability of vintage clothing and modern tailoring techniques.
With this guide, our team of 60s experts at Relco London wants to help you channel your inner Mod with ease. So, let's dive together into the world of retro-inspired fashion and discover how to piece together outfits that are nostalgic yet refreshingly contemporary.
Key Elements of Men's Mod Style
So, what lies at the heart of male mod fashion? We see clean lines, sharp tailoring, and a lot of understated elegance. Signature pieces include tailored suits with narrow lapels, often in muted tones or subtle patterns. These are often paired with slim-cut trousers that help create a sleek silhouette, button-down shirts in crisp whites or bold prints like paisley and stripes to offer the perfect base for layering an outfit.
Outerwear is just as equally iconic and important for the Mod outfit, with parkas offering a casual, stylish touch, ideal for those who appreciate functionality and a bit of flair.
The look would not be complete without a pair of polished Chelsea boots or loafers. These have remained a quintessential footwear choice throughout the years, channelling the effortless cool that defines Mod style.
Accessorising: the Mod Way
The finishing touch of every Mod outfit – accessories can quickly elevate the look from basic to sharp and timeless. Choose skinny ties in bold colours or classic black to add a sleek, modern edge to tailored suits. Braces are another great way to add Mod-esque flair to your look. Pick some in complementary shades or subtle patterns to add an air of sophistication to your outfit. Nothing exudes more retro charm than another staple of 1960s Mod fashion—a pair of small, round sunglasses, perfect for both formal occasions and casual looks.
Embrace the Iconic Mod Patterns and Fabrics
Male mod fashion is not only about the cut - patterns and fabrics play a huge role in Mod fashion. They add that special touch of personality and zest to the sleek designs, breathing life into the outfit.
Paisley print, with its timeless swirling pattern, is a Mod favourite when it comes to shirting. The iconic motif offers a playful look and brings a touch of boldness to your wardrobe. On top of the intricate pattern, it is often found in vibrant colour combinations like deep navy, burgundy, and gold, which create striking visual contrast. The paisley shirt is a refined, edgy, artistic, and aesthetic piece that deserves to be part of every Mod's wardrobe.
Think of patterns and fabrics as the building blocks of men's Mod style, combining simplicity with statement-making appeal.
Choose A Statement Outwear
Men’s Mod clothing is not fully complete without an outerwear piece. Monkey jackets, parkas, and woollen overcoats are all defining features of the Mod aesthetic. Allowing you to always balance practicality with impeccable style.
The overcoat, with its double-breasted design and tailored fit, exudes timeless sophistication and pairs seamlessly with casual and formal outfits. The iconic trench – another Mod favourite – will give you an air of elegance, especially in neutral shades like beige or black.
And if you fancy a more casual look, the monkey jacket stands out as a Mod staple. Originally favoured for its durability and distinctive design by sailors at sea, it can be worn for a casual stroll or a pub outing with the family. If you want to learn more, check out our guide to the surprising history of the monkey jacket.
Sharp Shoes and Wild Socks
Clothes are not the only staple of the movement - footwear is just as important. Polished leather loafers and brogues take centre stage. Characterised by sharp design and meticulous craftsmanship, wearing them embodies the clean-cut elegance that defines Mod style.
Never forgetting Mod's functionality, loafers offer versatility and are perfect for casual and formal outfits. Brogues, on the other side, add a touch of sophistication with their intricate detailing.
And be brave with your socks! Bold socks and laces are actually a subtle way to inject personality into your outfit. But also, don't be afraid to experiment with stripes and polka dots—the world is your oyster. Choose vibrant, fun socks and have them peek out from beneath slim trousers to create a playful contrast, ensuring every detail aligns with the Mod ethos of stylish individuality.
Incorporating Some Modern Touches
To keep men's Mod outfits relevant today, blend vintage pieces with more contemporary designs. For example, pair a vintage tailored blazer with modern slim-fit jeans for a smart-casual look, or combine a classic paisley shirt with chinos in unexpected colours like olive green or mustard. Swap traditional Chelsea boots for sleek sneakers to add a more relaxed, modern edge. Accessories like minimalist watches or leather backpacks can also bridge the gap between retro and current trends.
The key really is balance—let one or two vintage Mod items stand out while the rest of your outfit provides a more neutral contemporary contrast.
Some Shopping Tips
To find authentic men's retro clothing requires a bit of patience and a keen eye, but the rewards are worth it. Charity shops are treasure troves of hidden gems, especially if you visit often and explore the less obvious sections, like jackets or trousers.
Online marketplaces are also excellent for sourcing vintage Mod clothing, with many sellers offering detailed descriptions and photos to help you assess authenticity.
A good piece of advice from us - when shopping for authentic vintage pieces, always check for quality, condition, and brand authenticity, and be prepared to make minor alterations for the perfect fit.
The Secret Ingredient to Men's Mod Style: Hairstyles
If you want to take things further, the right hairstyle might be the perfect next step for you to achieve the authentic Mod aesthetic. Have you heard of the French crop? With its short, choppy sides and longer, textured top, it is a quintessential Mod cut that adds a sharp, structured edge to the look. If you seek a softer style, the mop-top—popularised by The Beatles—offers a relaxed, voluminous finish with a fringe that falls just above the eyes.
Both styles pair effortlessly with tailored suits or casual Mod outfits, adding that element of youthful rebellion, which is essential for the subculture.
Mastering That Iconic Mod Look
When it comes to mastering the Mod aesthetic, you need to carefully select the key pieces that resonate with you, be it patterned shirts, statement outwear, or classic footwear. You will effortlessly capture the essence of the Mod style: clean and sharp lines for a bold and rebellious look.
And don't forget to balance vintage and modern pieces. Choose functional accessories like sleek watches and patterned socks to combine minimalist details with bold colours to add a fresh take on the vintage piece you wear.
At Relco London, we are always seeking inspiration from the style icons of the Mod era to help you assemble a wardrobe that honours the aesthetic. Emulate the rebellious spirit of the movement with a bit of help from our curated selection of Mod-inspired clothing.